Customers have been advised they can use alternative ‘reasonable’ routes to get home and tickets will be accepted.

Customers stranded at Preston. Credit: Paul van de Rooy

National Rail has also advised that coaches will be running between Preston and Carlisle while the line is closed.

A statement from Lancashire Police said: “Please be aware there is a road closure on at Butler Street Preston as you turn left off Corporation Street and Fishergate due to the severe flooding we are experiencing.

“Drivers are being requested to try and find an alternative route and avoid town centre where possible.”

A statement on the National Rail website says: “Heavy rain is flooding the railway between Preston and Lancaster, meaning trains cannot run between these stations.”